Alilo, Georgian Christmas tradition
Alilo is a traditional Georgian Christmas song usually sung by children while marching and gathering gifts. The Christmas march is called Alilo too. Photo by T. Robakidze
In Tbilisi and several other Georgian cities, Alilo is a theatrical tour involving a lot of animals. Photo by T. Robakidze
Buffalos are an integral part of Alilo. They pull carts laden with gathered gifts and sweets. Photo by T. Robakidze
The Alilo tradition was suspended only once in Georgia, during the Soviet era. The Patriarch Ilia II restored it in the 90s. Photo by T. Robakidze
People started marching from the Rose Revolution Square towards their final destination - the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi. Photo by T. Robakidze
Traditionally, at least three people were needed to take part in Alilo, as the song is multi-voice. The trio would go from door-to-door, singing the Alilo song and get candies in return. Photo by T. Robakidze
The march stopped at several places: near the Opera House, Parliament building, City Hall and Patriarchate. Photo by T. Robakidze
At all of the stops, the Alilo participants were given sweets by officials. Photo by T. Robakidze
All gifts and sweets gathered during Alilo will be given to homeless children and poor people. Photo by T. Robakidze
Children in white clothing represent angels. Photo by T. Robakidze
Herdsmen are also a part of Alilo. Traditionally, their role was to inform people of the good news that Jesus had been born. Photo by T. Robakidze
Priests and church personnel also participate in the march. Photo by T. Robakidze
Alilo is something children find very amusing. Photo by T. Robakidze
The march ended at the Holy Trinity Cathedral where they performed a Christmas service. Photo by T. Robakidze